Bill > S1352

This bill establishes provisions for "starter home subdivisions," which are defined as residential developments on at least four acres designed to offer affordable homeownership through single-family detached homes on smaller lots (no larger than 1,500 square feet), with compact home sizes and efficient site design to reduce development costs while remaining compatible with surrounding neighborhoods. Specifically, cities with a population over 10,000 will be prohibited from banning these subdivisions in residential zoning areas and must amend their comprehensive plans and land use regulations by February 1, 2027, to allow them, with exceptions for historic districts or properties. These amendments must prevent cities from requiring lot sizes larger than 1,500 square feet, front or rear setbacks exceeding 15 feet (or 5 feet on the side), lot front widths over 30 feet, or lot depths over 70 feet, unless specific constraints make it unfeasible. The bill also prohibits charging higher permit, impact, or utility connection fees for starter home subdivisions compared to other single-family subdivisions, though cities can offer incentives for builders who comply with smaller lot and setback options. Importantly, these provisions do not override existing laws protecting public health, safety, and welfare, such as building codes, environmental regulations, or infrastructure requirements, and cities can still deny or condition approval if infrastructure is inadequate, applying the same standards as for other residential subdivisions. The bill includes a severability clause, meaning if any part is found invalid, the rest remains in effect, and it declares an emergency, making it effective on July 1, 2026.

Budget and Finance, Business and Industry, Justice

State Affairs Committee (Senate)

https://legislature.idaho.gov/sessioninfo/2026/legislation/S1352/